Bangkok Airport Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

Known locally as Suvarnabhumi airport, this is an important hub for both continental Indochina and long-haul destinations such as Australia and New Zealand. There is so much happening in this city, and it is so exotic, that it would be a shame not to visit if you have the opportunity. If you can squeeze in a few days of touring while you are there you won't regret it, but even if you are just on one of the many eight-hour layovers, there is still time to soak up some of that South-East Asian ambiance.

Bangkok Airport is just thirty kilometers from the center of Bangkok, so why not ditch your luggage in one of the many luggage storage facilities near Bangkok Airport, and see as much as you can. If you have a limited amount of time, there are bus tours of between thirty minutes and two hours. Alternatively, you could hop onto the sky train and just get an overview of the city from this popular public transport facility.

If you have more than just a few hours, a visit to the Grand Palace is a must. This is not only the home of the  Thai king, it also houses the Wat Pho Temple where you will be able to see the famous golden reclining Buddha.  All over Bangkok, street life is vibrant and street food is both cheap and delicious. The city is also known as the Venice of the East and a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River offers you very different views of the city, as well as allowing you to experience a little of the fascinating life of a working river. If you get the chance to visit one of the many floating markets, you definitely won't regret it. They offer superb opportunities for capturing unforgettable photos.

Bangkok Airport bag policy

Before heading for the airport, it is a good idea to see what bag policy your particular airline applies because they do tend to vary from one company to the next. As far as passing through security is concerned, your liquid and gel products will need to be in containers of 100 milliliters or less, and these bottles in turn will need to be carried in a see-through, zip lock, plastic bag. The liquid bag should be kept separate from your other hand luggage and easily available for security inspection.

In keeping with nearly all international airports, you will be required to pass through a metal detector before boarding your flight.

Bangkok Airport food policy

Thais pride themselves on both the quality and variety of their cuisine and this airport certainly doesn't disappoint in that regard. Although there are no restrictions on bringing your own food into the airport building, unlike many airports, the food here is not extortionately priced and you may find it easier simply to purchase your meal at one of the many restaurants or stands. If Thai food is not your thing, there are plenty of more familiar options on hand.

It is in the city itself that you will really be able to sample Thai food. Here you can opt for a refined sit-down restaurant or try some of the food stalls where you can order by simply pointing at the dish of your choice. Either way, you won't be disappointed.

Getting to and from Bangkok Airport

The cheapest, and often the quickest way to get to town is on the Airport Rail Link. This leaves from the basement to the airport and tickets can be bought before boarding for 150 Baht. The journey takes 15 minutes.

Taxis are another option, though Bangkok traffic is famously dense. Travel time will vary between 45 and 75 minutes and the journey will cost 300 to 500 baht. There will be a line of taxis waiting to pick up fares at level 1. Don't accept a taxi from touts approaching you in the terminal buildings.

Luggage lockers at Bangkok Airport

Getting around an energetic city like this can become a real chore if you are not traveling light. Your best option is to store your luggage in one of the many locker rental facilities dotted around the city and then you are able to move freely.

Some of the better rental facilities enable you to book a locker online and thus avoid the inconvenience of finding the lockers all full. This also stops you from having to deal in cash as the payment can be made as you confirm your booking.